Perak FA took a significant step toward the semi-finals of the MFL Challenge Cup 2025/26 after grinding out a hard-fought 0–1 victory over UM-Damansara at UM Arena, Kuala Lumpur.
A clinical second-half header from Amirul Aiman was all that separated the two sides in a tactical battle that saw the visitors seize a vital away advantage.
Playing at home, the “City Tigers” of UM-Damansara started brightly, looking to impose their rhythm early on. Led by captain Khair Jones and spearheaded by the physical presence of Thankgod Michael, the hosts created several nervous moments for the Perak backline. However, Perak’s Syazwan Syazany proved to be an impenetrable wall, pullng off crucial saves to keep the score level.
At the other end, Perak relied on the pace of Ekene Victor and Daniel Hakimi to hit on the break. While both teams traded blows, neither could find the finishing touch, heading into the tunnel at halftime with the deadlock still intact.
The second half saw Perak step up their intensity. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when a well-delivered cross found Amirul Aiman inside the box. The midfielder timed his jump to perfection, directing a powerful header past Haziq Mukriz to give the “Bos Gaurus” the lead.
UM-Damansara nearly leveled the score in the 70th minute when Thankgod Michael found space in the box, but his low drive agonisingly whistled past the post. Perak’s disciplined defensive block held firm for the remainder of the match, frustrating the university side’s efforts to find an equalizer.
Credit Photo : Perak FA
